Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) announced on Thursday that it has opened a Title IX investigation at San Antonito Elementary School after a parent raised concerns during the Albuquerque Board of Education meeting on Nov. 4. The parent alleged that the district failed to follow Title IX and APS’s student conduct policy when male students reportedly made contact with other students during recess transitions.

In response, APS’s Equal Opportunity Services (EOS) office engaged a third‑party investigator to review the incident, according to a statement to KOAT. The district also created a purchase order to cover the investigator’s fees, a standard practice for such inquiries.

APS disputed the allegation of non‑compliance, stating, “We dispute the allegation. The proper protocols have been followed in this incident.” The agency highlighted that EOS provides annual Title IX training to principals to prevent compliance issues and that any concerns are addressed through thorough investigations.

The parent who spoke at the board meeting said he had received an email from the school’s principal describing the alleged contact and provided board members with a packet of information. He urged the board to conduct an “immediate investigation into San Antonito’s willful non‑compliance with Title IX and APS code of conduct policy.”

Title IX is a federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in education programs receiving federal financial assistance. APS officials emphasized that the district’s procedures align with the law and that the investigation will determine whether any corrective action is needed.

What’s next: The third‑party investigation will proceed independently, and APS has indicated that findings will be shared with the Board of Education once the review is complete. Parents and community members are encouraged to stay informed through APS communications and upcoming board meetings.

Sources: koat.com